November 17th; Oxo Tower, London. Against a backdrop of the London skyline, a live jazz band plays for those presents at the 12th edition of the Heritage Awards, in the context of the 2016 World Travel Market. Guests sip champagne, nibble on some sushi, have their fortunes read by a fortuneteller, strike a pose for the caricaturist and immortalise this evening with the ‘Selfie Mirror.’ The guests? The British press, tour operators, travel agents and all the key actors of the Travel and Hospitality industries. Read more

The second edition of VLH Excellence Awards took place on August 17th, in a joyful atmosphere and the wonderful setting of L’Aventure du Sucre, with the Deputy Prime Minister, the Honourable Xavier-Luc Duval as one of the distinguished guests. Here is a summary of the event’s official speeches, awards and celebrations.

Dressed to the nines and all smiles, VLH’s team members gathered most enthusiastically for the award ceremony. VLH Excellence Awards have been organised for the second year running to reward and recognise employees for their hard work and commitment towards excellence. All of Veranda Resorts and Heritage Resorts‘ profit centres were represented, including the Seven Colours Spas and the hotel boutiques. Eleven awards were distributed (see the list of award winners below), with three additional outstanding awards: the “Outstanding Achievement Award”, the “Best Customer Champion Award” and the “Most Inspiring Leader Award”. The purpose of such awards is to encourage teams to surpass themselves, to innovate towards higher levels of competitiveness and to meet both their clients’ ever-changing needs and new trends in the travel industry.

An extremely positive and healthy performance

In his speech, François Eynaud, CEO of VLH, actually referred to a highly positive and healthy financial performance for the group: “Our commitment to excellence as well as our continuous efforts in the last years have paid off in 2016. We managed to get stronger through difficult years and we are now taking full advantage of the upturn in local tourism business.” Indeed, the group recorded a very strong performance in 2015-2016, with a 85% average annual occupancy rate – that is a seven percentage point increase over the previous year – and a 11% improvement of the average price, which resulted in a 20% increase in RevPar, a 15% increase in global turnover up to Rs 2 billion, and Rs 200 million Profit Before Tax. It is actually the highest progression in the Mauritian hotel sector this year.

Planning ahead

François Eynaud also seized the opportunity to talk about the future and VLH’s strategic plan for the 2016-2020 period. The plan focuses on two major aspects. First, there is the development of Bel Ombre as a touristic destination, both through the quality and diversity of leisure and accommodation offers, and through the richness of its natural environment. The CEO also mentioned the renovation of Heritage Le Telfair in 2017, as well as the construction of another golf course in partnership with Rogers. The second focus is the promotion of the Veranda Resorts’ brand, both in Mauritius and in the region, with the renovation of Veranda Paul et Virginie and the addition of a fifth Veranda Resorts hotel in VLH’s portfolio.

Following the speeches and award presentations, guests enjoyed the enchanting setting of L’Aventure du Sucre as well as a cocktail buffet with soft music in the background.

http://www.coloursmauritius.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/VLH-Excellence-Awards-2016-1.jpg350700evovlh19http://www.coloursmauritius.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/colours-main-logo.pngevovlh192016-09-02 12:28:192016-10-27 12:54:03VLH rewards the best performances of this year

Veranda Resorts has reviewed its wedding packages to bring more enchantment to couples who wish to get married in Mauritius. Colours gives you an overview of these packages that are about to delight many. Read more

After welcoming the owner of Château Lascombes in May last year during a special wine-pairing dinner, the Château de Bel Ombre is hosting two other wine-tasting events at the beginning of this year, securing its position as one of the top addresses for wine lovers.

Château CLINET

On the 16th January 2016, the Château de Bel Ombre will host its first wine-pairing dinner of the year, in partnership with Mr and Mrs Laborde, owners of the Château CLINET label, who will take this opportunity to educate guests on the unique characteristics of the Pomerol terroir.

The evening will start with a traditional aperitif in the gardens of the Château, followed by a five-course gala dinner paired with Château CLINET wines. On the menu: scallops fried in truffle oil, chestnut cream, veal filet mignon with San Daniele ham, Argentinian rib steak, toffee and hazelnut shortbread… All this will be served with soft music in the background.

Château CLINET is one of the most prestigious estates in the wine-growing region of Pomerol. Located some 40 km on the eastside of Bordeaux and on the right bank of the Garonne river, Pomerol is listed as one of the most favourable soils for the Merlot variety across the world, thanks to its gravel and clay constitution.

Château Leoville Barton
In March – on the 19th to be more precise – the Château de Bel Ombre will welcome Mr and Mrs Barton for a second wine-pairing dinner. Similarly to former events, the owners will have the opportunity to comment on the different wine pairings and specificities of each wine to the great delight of wine connoisseurs. It will all be part of a gala dinner for which Chef Govinden and his team will be preparing an exclusive menu. More details to come!

Château Léoville Barton’s estate is located at the heart of Saint-Julien, which is considered as one of the world’s finest wine-growing regions. The 50-hectare property of Leoville has a great proportion of old vineyards planted in gravelly soil and clay subsoil, which provides for the best possible quality. The wines are typical to the Saint-Julien appellation: great balance, subtle nose and delicate aromas.

The Château de Bel Ombre

Nestled at the heart of the Domaine de Bel Ombre, the Château is the best place to be for discerning gourmets. Served in the elegant setting of this 19th-century mansion, Chef Govinden’s creative cuisine combines Mauritian accents, local products and original flavours. It is only natural that the Château has welcomed renowned wine producers since 2015. They come along to promote their products and arrange for connoisseurs to taste their wines.

The Château intends to become the Domaine de Bel Ombre’s flagship restaurant in the near future, in terms of service, menu, venue and featured events.

With another series of wine events, Heritage Resorts ensures guests a real gourmet experience during their holidays in Mauritius.

Once again this year, the magic of the end of year celebrations overwhelms Heritage Resorts. An entrancing decor, a glamorous atmosphere, lavish dinners and prestige are this Mauritian hospitality brand’s key ingredients to close the year 2015 under the best auspices. Let the party begin!

Sense of celebration from the Château de Bel Ombre to the C Beach Club

Inspired by Mauritian culture and traditions with a touch of glamour and exoticism, end of year celebrations at Heritage Resorts are simply unforgettable.
For Christmas and New Year’s eves, Heritage Resorts’ hotel restaurants as well as the Château de Bel Ombre and the C Beach Club will indulge guests with sumptuous dinners.

A splendid Christmas at the Château de Bel Ombre

To celebrate Christmas in a glamorous and chic setting, welcome to the Château de Bel Ombre! Our guests will revel in the elegant atmosphere of this outstanding mansion and appreciate the traditional and authentic Christmas Eve menu featuring local ingredients.

The C Beach Club in a festive mood

The magic of Christmas will also spread to the C Beach Club, where visitors are invited to a lunch buffet and beach activities during the day, and to a delicious Christmas dinner in the evening. What’s more, a special evening on the theme of “Mauritius at your table” awaits visitors. This will be a casual dinner featuring local flavours, a campfire and a sega dance show.

For a total change of scene this season, Boma, Heritage Awali’s most African restaurant, invites guests to a fine African buffet along with a sundowner from the tip of Frederica Nature Reserve. A memorable time to look forward to!

Heritage Resorts dressed up to the nines!

On New Year’s Day, Heritage Resorts will treat its guests to a six-hand menu prepared by Heritage Resorts’ three Executive Chefs and served at Anabella’s, Balafon and the C Beach Club. This promises to be a palatial dining experience that will satisfy the most discerning palates.

The Château de Bel Ombre will also host an exceptional gala dinner with a live band to accompany the exquisite dishes prepared by Chef Govinden.

While Heritage Golf Club will host a barbecue dinner at the Steak House, the C Beach Club will invite guests to a colourful “Tutti Frutti” evening, with a DJ from Paris at the decks.

Something for kids and teens

At Heritage Resorts, kids and teens are not left aside! Timomo Kids’ Club invites children to decorate the Christmas tree and meet Santa Claus at a funfair where plenty of gifts await them. Other not-to-be-missed holiday events include Christmas cooking workshops, Christmas tale reading and stargazing, which will make Christmas Day even more magical.

Teens will love the “no parent” party with the Cool Teens Club’s DJ as well as the beach movie night to end up the year in a spectacular way!

The Seven Colours of Christmas

To bring a sweet ending to the year, Seven Colours Spa will delight its guests with special offers, such as laughing therapy, a delicious coconut treatment followed by a lush cocoa massage or a Christmassy hand and nail ritual. These are precious moments to share with mothers or daughters.

Holiday celebration at Heritage Golf Club

With Heritage Golf Club’s holiday offers, guests will be able to play golf at night, learn how to play footgolf or get involved in individual competitions. Hitting the little white ball will never be so festive!

Surely, the end of year celebrations at Heritage Resorts are exceptional events that you don’t want to miss! We wish you a happy holiday season!

http://www.coloursmauritius.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/celebrating-the-magic-of-the-season-at-heritage-resorts.jpg350700Roshnee Domahttp://www.coloursmauritius.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/colours-main-logo.pngRoshnee Doma2015-11-06 07:41:102016-01-27 06:25:42Celebrating the magic of the season at Heritage Resorts

Veranda Resorts has built its reputation on the art of receiving and entertaining guests. It is no surprise that all Veranda Resorts’ hotels have planned to surprise their guests with exotic end-of-year celebrations and have agreed on one theme: Tropical Vibes! There is no better place to party than on a tropical island, especially if you want to end the year on a high note!

A blend of pure white and flashy colours, tables adorned with fruits and plants, colourful bar counters, mini fruit market, a 100% natural décor with hints of vibrant colours and exotic Christmas trees… EOY celebrations at Veranda Resorts will definitely be bright, sunny and fruity! Nothing is too much to delight visitors and lead them into a unique and fantastic atmosphere.

Veranda Pointe aux Biches: Jazzy and exotic rhythms

For the end of this year, Veranda Pointe aux Biches will welcome its guests in a freshly renovated décor. With both exo-chic and jazzy ambiences, it will be hard to resist! Whether they choose to be there on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, guests will surely have a memorable time as they relax and enjoy the convivial atmosphere.

On the 24th of December, the evening will start with a “merry” Happy Hour and famous Christmas Carols in the background. Then, guests will be invited to sit at a contemporary Mauritian table and enjoy an exceptional gala dinner to the sound of a jazz band.
The next day, the magic of Christmas goes on with an amazing drink and cocktail tasting (the Coconut Jalsa is a must!) and a tropical buffet.

New Year’s Eve will be as delightful, with some beach animations, Happy Hour and gala dinner. Guests should get ready to dance the night away! On New Year’s Day, Veranda Pointe aux Biches offers them to start the year in a very special way: magical sundowner and international buffet for an unforgettable experience!

Veranda Palmar Beach: Family fiesta and latino music

For the end of the year, the most family-friendly hotel of Veranda Resorts is preparing a special offer that will please the big and the small. Guests will be instantly captivated by the Christmas show featuring Nativity scenes, Christmas Carols and a performance by the Kids’ Club, followed by the distribution of gifts. Santa himself will be there! The night will go on with a delicious buffet dinner and live music.

On Christmas Day, Veranda Palmar Beach will welcome guests at a mouth-watering barbecue around the pool. In the evening, a special buffet dinner will be served at the Regatta restaurant. Then, guests will have the opportunity to show their best moves on a 100% latino dance-floor. It is otherwise possible to book a table at the Horizon restaurant and indulge in a seafood dinner.

Veranda Palmar Beach will also host a special programme on New Year’s Day: sundowner and cocktail on the beach to say goodbye to 2015, followed by a flavourful dinner buffet. The highlight of the night? Dancing to the DJ’s music and watching fireworks!

Veranda Grand Baie: dance till dawn!

With its eternal sunshine and magnificent turquoise lagoon, Grand Baie is an ideal spot for the end-of-year celebrations. The place-to-be in this major seaside hub, if you want to live an unforgettable Christmas in the most magical way, is Veranda Grand Baie, of course!
Looking forward to party till the break of day to welcome the new year? At Veranda Grand Baie, the evening programme of the 31st will start with a lavish seafood and Mauritian buffet, also featuring the traditional turkey and a tantalizing selection of desserts. Afterwards, guests will have so much fun celebrating 2016 on the dance-floor that they would hardly want to leave!

Veranda Paul et Virginie: a romantic celebration

A real love nest for couples, Veranda Paul et Virginie welcomes guests who are looking to celebrate the end of the year in an intimate setting. Hand in hand, couples will enjoy delicious cocktails at the bar, followed by a dinner buffet and music to dance the night away.
They will be offered to celebrate New Year’s Day the Mauritian way with an exotic menu featuring local specialities such as the heart of palm salad. After dinner, the DJ will lead them into a festive night brightened up with splendid fireworks.

Clearly, Veranda Resorts’ four hotels spare no effort to make sure their visitors end up the year in a festive and typically Mauritian atmosphere. Hurray for 2016!

Veranda Pointe aux Biches reopens after three months of closure for renovation and, in the process, it has upgraded to the status of a 4-star boutique hotel.

From June 1st to August 23rd, Veranda Pointe aux Biches was closed for renovation in order to provide future customers with ultimate modern comfort in a tropical-chic setting. In this freshly four-starred seaside resort, guests are invited to take off their shoes and experience total barefoot bliss.

Renovation brought a refreshing change. Refurbished with wooden furniture and blue shades, the hotel’s common spaces invite guests to savour the simplest pleasures of tropical vacation: rest in the sun, daydream, read, taste the local cuisine and discover Mauritius.

Behind the scene of this renovation is interior designer Paule de Romeuf, back by her fifteen years of experience with prominent international architects. On her most famous project, which is The Arab World Institute in Paris, she has worked with world-renowned architect Jean Nouvel. The concept she has created for Veranda Pointe aux Biches is based on the stimulation of the five senses within a tropical background.

Exotic and modern comfort for a 4-star vacation

The hotel’s 115 Comfort and Family rooms as well as the 30 adult-only Privilege rooms have been upgraded to provide guests with excellent service and accommodation: canopy beds with quality bedding, a nature-inspired decoration with wood, wicker, bamboo and ceramic elements, sleek look, terrace or balcony… and the latest technology!

To ensure Veranda Pointe aux Biches’ guests peaceful holidays, nothing has been left to chance. In addition to the free wireless connection, each room features upgraded linen, bathroom amenities and new TV channels as well as a Nespresso machine and a smartphone docking station in Privilege rooms only. Those small additions allow guests to enjoy home-like comfort in a laid-back seaside setting.

With its tropical-chic look and an even stronger barefoot concept, Veranda Pointe aux Biches is the new gem of Veranda Resorts. Located between two fishing villages on the northwest coast, this charming boutique hotel boasts an ideal beachfront location at a short distance from the bustling hub of Grand Baie and other tourist attractions in the North of the island.

We are a few days away from the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, the great golf tournament that will punctuate life at the Domaine de Bel Ombre between the 7th and the 10th of May. Here are some of the latest news in anticipation of this major event.

Get ready for an amazing show! As the first-ever golf tournament sanctioned by three of the main international tours – the European Tour, the Asian Tour and the Sunshine Tour, this golf event will not only make history, but also features the highest prize purse (1 million Euros!) to be paid out for any competition held in Mauritius. Besides, such exceptional sports events come with big names!

Among the ambassadors of the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open are Hennie Otto (South-Africa), three-time winner of the European Tour; Thomas Levet (France) who won the Barclays Scottish Open, the Alstom Open and the Ryder Cup among others; and Max Orrin (England), champion of the 2014 National Bank of Oman Golf Classic.

Heritage Resorts is proudly emphasizing that this will be the first men’s professional golf tournament to have a lady as Tournament Director. Pauli van Meersbergen, a professional golfer of the Sunshine Tour, will be assisted by David Williams (European Tour) and Wanchai Meechai (Asian Tour) in the tournament management.

Among the top players are the winner of the BMW PGA Championship / DP World Tour Championship, Simon Khan (England) and winners of Race to Dubai tournaments with a prize fund over 1.5 million euros, Andrew Dodt (Australia), Thomas BJØRN (Denmark), Thorbjørn OLESEN (Denmark), Scott HEND (Australia) as well as Mikael Lundberg (Sweden).

Moreover, the event sponsors are pushing back the limits of creativity to reward the best players. Villas Valriche will award a one-million dollar villa to the first player who hits an eagle on the 17th whole (423 meter, PAR 3). Jaguar will take advantage of this tournament to unveil in all exclusivity its brand new Jaguar XE designed for the African market, and reserves a specialty prize to those who hit an Albatros during the Saturday and Sunday schedule of play: a Jaguar XE R-Sport.

Other sponsors of the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open include Heineken, Vinta Bordeaux, Barons de Rothschild Champagne and Samsung.

A public-oriented event

The good news for golf fans is that the competition is open to the public! Heritage Golf Club will welcome visitors during the four days of tournament, with a daily rate or a four-day package. Those who wish to attend the game only need to head to the Domaine de Bel Ombre!

The AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open also makes for an ideal family outing. Alongside the golf tournament, lots of fun and activities will be on offer at the Place du Moulin on the last days of competition, including wall climbing, a mini zip line, laser tag, quad-biking, buggy rides and a golf simulator.

While children will enjoy the funfair, parents will be able to attend (on invitation only) an exclusive conference on sports and ethics, held by former French Minister of Education and philosopher, Luc Ferry.

Could there be anything better than a scrumptious dinner at Le Château de Bel Ombre to end the tournament in style? A wine-and-dine banquet will be organised at the Château on Sunday 10th May, where the President of Château Lascombes himself will present the fine wines that will accompany the Chef’s tastefully elaborated five-course menu.

Hosting this large-scale competition is the Heritage Golf Club, which was ranked among the top ten courses in Africa by CNN, among the top 100 in the world and as Indian Ocean’s Best Golf Course at the 2014 World Golf Awards. It is part of the Domaine de Bel Ombre, which also features five-star Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort and Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort, as well as Heritage The Villas.